By Martin Graham
Senne Lammens’ transfer to Manchester United on deadline day was one of the more eye-catching stories of the window. The 23-year-old Belgian goalkeeper, who had been on United’s radar for some time, finally sealed his move from Royal Antwerp for £18.1m after spending deadline day already in England.
The deal was completed late in the evening, hours after the window closed, and came after Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez missed out on his own dream move to Old Trafford. For Lammens, the switch was described as “a dream come true” and the start of “something special.”
Three weeks later, supporters are still waiting to see him in action. It remains unclear whether coach Ruben Amorim will hand him a debut against Brentford, Sunderland, or hold him back even longer.
Settling into life at Old Trafford
Those around the club stress there is no suggestion of disappointment with Lammens so far. His calm manner and maturity have impressed teammates, and he has already found a permanent home, avoiding the disruption of hotel living.
Third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton praised him on the Training Ground Guru podcast, highlighting his personality and technical qualities. Within the club, there is a strong belief in his potential, with the expectation that his signing was made with the future firmly in mind.
Last season, Lammens produced standout numbers in Belgium. Across 30 league matches, he registered seven clean sheets, made 173 saves – more than any other keeper in Europe’s top-10 leagues – and denied four penalties. Opta figures showed a 77.4% save rate, 71.5% pass accuracy, and an impressive 18.4 goals prevented. Former teammate Toby Alderweireld called him “a perfect fit in England.”
Bayindir under scrutiny
Initially, Amorim resisted placing Lammens into the starting side, preferring Altay Bayindir, who had been first choice since last season. Ahead of the Manchester derby, Amorim explained the decision, stressing the need for experience during a demanding period and noting the challenges of adapting to a new country and league.
Bayindir started in the 3-0 defeat at Manchester City and again in the win over Chelsea. However, doubts remain over his long-term suitability. His performances this season show a save percentage of 50%, ranking 16th among goalkeepers with more than two league games. Errors against Arsenal and Burnley have been costly, and his distribution statistics also rank poorly.
The numbers point towards Lammens being given a chance eventually. Still, Amorim must choose the right moment carefully, as an early setback could damage the young keeper’s progress.
Limited chances for rotation
United’s early exit from the EFL Cup at League Two Grimsby reduced the options for easing Lammens into the side. He was not included as an overage player in the Premier League International Cup, which could have provided useful experience under the Old Trafford lights.
That leaves either a league introduction or waiting until the FA Cup in January. Whenever it happens, his first appearance will come with scrutiny, as rival managers will be quick to test him.
Patience required
Former United goalkeeper Roy Carroll has urged caution, drawing comparisons with David de Gea’s early struggles. He stressed that at 23, Lammens must be given time to grow into the role, with mistakes part of the learning process.
For now, the Belgian remains an unused option, but the expectation is clear: his moment will come sooner rather than later.
